When He Saved Me by Melody Claire

 

He was the savior I never knew I needed…

Jamie

The moment I laid eyes on him, I was captivated. I wanted to know everything about the guy with the soulful eyes and broody exterior. He throws up walls at every turn, but I can be patient. The more I get to know him, the more I want to help him see how beautiful life is once you truly choose to live it. Can I convince him that love is worth opening yourself up for?

Finn

Invisible nearly all of my life, I was living a shell of an existence. Work. Eat. Sleep. Repeat. Then Jamie walks in with his shiny, pretty-boy exterior and the heart of a golden retriever. He doesn’t understand my life, but that doesn’t stop him from trying, and next thing I know, I’m opening up to him in ways I never have with anyone. But when tragedy strikes and roles are reversed, Jamie loses his shine.

He saved me from a life devoid of color. Can I do the same for him?

When He Saved Me is an emotional new adult romance featuring a broody barista and a sunshiney college student navigating love and loss and comes with a guaranteed HEA. This standalone deals with heavy themes of grief.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/175679261-when-he-saved-me

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

Finn has been existing through life rather than truly living it. He was kicked out of his house right after high school and went into survivor mode and never left. He worked hard to keep a roof over his head and to stay afloat. And if it wasn’t for having his best friend Carmen around to be there for him, he doesn’t know where he would be. But the life he is living isn’t enough. And it’s not until Jamie walks into his life does he realize what he has been missing by closing himself off to others and guarding his heart. But Jamie chips away at his defenses bit by bit. And Finn for the first time may let someone in. Jamie is sunshine despite the bad that come into his life. He lost his dad young and his mom currently has cancer and it’s only a matter of time until he loses her too. With his last year of college being busier than ever, he never expected to add a relationship to it. But then he sees Finn. And the pull he feels toward him is impossible to ignore. Though Finn may not be ready to give Jamie the time of day yet, Jamie won’t give up. Not yet. Because he knows if he can get past Finn’s defenses just a bit then what they could have could be everything. Really loved this story! Jamie and Finn are such a great match that balance one another out so so well. Really sweet and touching story. 

Hades & Persephone Book 3.5: A Game of Gods by Scarlett St. Clair

 

Hades & Persephone Book 3.5

Told in multiple POVs, A Game of Gods is the final installment in the Hades Saga by USA Today Bestselling author Scarlett St. Clair.

Hades, God of the Dead, has finally made Persephone his in every way possible. With their wedding on the horizon, the couple should be ecstatic. But Demeter is wreaking havoc on their bliss by battering the whole of New Greece with erratic and dangerous weather. At the same time, Theseus continues with his agenda against the Gods, allying with the hate-group Triad in an effort to bring down all of Olympus.

Hades refuses to allow anything to stop him from securing Persephone as his bride, but he must play a deep strategic game with the Gods of Olympus to safeguard their future. And it is not entirely clear which Gods are truly on his side.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/105733095-a-game-of-gods

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

It’s been a while since I read the last book in this series, but once I started reading it slowly came back to me. And I almost forgot how much I love this series. And the major cliffhanger that was book 3! This book is book 3 of this series but told in Hades point of view. Along with a few other surprising point of views. I really loved this one. I loved a chance to see what Hades was doing and thinking in this book because he has his own storyline going along while Persephone was doing something else. Though everything will come together for them and what they are fighting, it is still interesting to see what Hades is up to. The other point of view in this is Dionysus. And his was great. We get to see him and Ariadne and the trouble they are getting into as they fight on the same side as Hades. Plus, the romance between them is one you don’t wanna miss. Slow burning and worth the wait as they two figure out the other. Very entertaining. And the last point of view is from one of our villains, Theseus, and let’s just say, I can’t for him to get what is coming to him. That guy has got to go. There isn’t too much I can say without spoilers but another thing I adore about this series is the way the myths are brought in. So many are classics that you know and recognize but then we get some that have quite the twist. Either it hadn’t happened yet in their world or it is about to happen but small twist to make it new. Really love this world and I am beyond excited for the final book for Hades and Persephone! Especially happy that it is coming soon and it will be a dual pov with them. We will definitely need it after seeing where these two characters were left off.

Unlucky 13 Book 6: Volatile by JR Gray

 

Unlucky 13 Book 6

Welcome to Black Diamond Resort and Spa… and my exile… A guy in a skirt wouldn’t turn a straight guy on, right? I spent the last decade performing next to him. I’ve never looked at him as more—until I walked in on him in a skirt. He’s as broken as I am. We survived our childhood together. And when he’s finally trying to embrace the parts his father tried to beat out of him, I can’t handle it. He’s taunting me with smeared eye-liner and a filthy smile, singing to a sold-out crowd, and it’s getting too hot under these stage lights. I can’t look him in the eyes. I can’t be with him—not like that—but I can’t stop thinking about him. He's pushing me over the edge. Now we’re banished to this forsaken celebrity timeout—to play emotional chicken—and he’s determined to make sure I lose. He’ll push every button I possess until I give in.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123825479-volatile

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

Royal and Aspen have been best friends for a long time. Both have been through a lot. And they found the best way to express themselves is in their music. Years later, their band is killing it. But things are about to change. Aspen is tired and ready to just be himself. And himself means that sometimes he likes to wear a skirt, especially on stage. Royal isn’t prepared for the attraction he has spent a very long time stamping down, to roar back to life. Feelings he swore he buried are coming to surface and he just can’t handle it. And in doing so, he ends up creating a gap between him and Aspen and even their band. Aspen has always had feelings for Royal but knew nothing would come out of it, but then he starts to realize that maybe Royal is attracted to him. But these two choose a pretty destructive road instead of talking and eventually their manager sends them to Black Diamond to manage their anger among other things. No one expected for these two to finally come clean about their feelings and actually do something about it. Aspen and Royal are complicated to say the least. They have a lot of things to get through about themselves and about their past. But once they can take the step to accept themselves, they’ll find how easily a relationship between them can be. I really liked this one! This one actually spent a good amount of time before and after the Black Diamond visit which was a nice change up. Another great addition to this series.

Cherry Tree Harbor Book 2: Hideaway Heart by Melanie Harlow

 

Cherry Tree Harbor Book 2

All I wanted was a break–two weeks off from being Pixie Hart, country music sensation, and fourteen days of peace, privacy, and solitude as plain old Kelly Jo Sullivan.

But thanks to some overzealous paparazzi, my family refuses to let me go anywhere alone, and I’m stuck sharing this tiny cabin with a tall, dark, and bearded stranger.

And guess what? There’s only one bed.

Well, he can couch it.

Xander Buckley might be hotter than a stolen blow torch, and I get that he’s a former Navy SEAL and all, but the man gives new meaning to the words overbearing, overprotective, bossy alpha male. I can’t even post a photo on social media without him warning me it’s not safe, or take a morning jog without him following behind.

But he’s made it clear that what he says goes, and if I don’t like it, I can kiss my vacation goodbye.

Instead, I end up kissing him.

I don’t even know how it happened–one minute we were at each other’s throats, the next we were at each other’s mercy. What’s even more shocking is how good we are together. He understands my need for freedom, and I understand his need for control.

But emotional trust doesn’t come easily to me. And we’re on two completely different paths.

Without question, I’d put my life in his hands.

Just don’t ask me to give him my heart.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/138940782-hideaway-heart

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Xander has only a few weeks until the grand opening of hid bar and he has quite a lot to do. But when his friend, Kevin, from the Navy SEALs calls to ask him for a favor, he can’t say no. This guy saved his life and Xander owe him everything. Even if that means taking a bodyguard position for a celebrity. That celebrity is Kevin’s sister, Kelly Jo Sullivan aka Pixie Hart. A country singer who is the nation’s sweetheart. All Kelly wants to do is get two weeks away from everyone and everything. She needs a break. A break from the producers who won’t let her sing the songs she writes and the music she wants to sing. A break from her crappy ex who just can’t seem to accept that she is done with him and his cheating ways. Even if he is a famous singer as well. Away from a father who walks out the door more often than not but doesn’t forget to ask for money as he goes. And don’t forget the latest security breach on her team that threw all her trust issues into a whole new level. So no, she does not want the bodyguard her brother hired to babysit her. Well, at least for a little while. Though Xander and Kelly’s initial meeting is memorable, the two definitely butt heads more often than not. But underneath that is an attraction that neither can really deny. And when they let that attraction fly? It will be lightning. Really adored this story! Xander and Kelly had such great chemistry. Their banter was so fun and worked so well. The story had so many other things running through it as well and it most certainly keeps you on your toes. Not only do we get their love story but we also got a bit of mystery going on as Xander works hard to keep Kelly safe. Such a fun story! I couldn’t put it down. And I’m most certainly looking forward to the next book!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Rules We Break Book 2: Don’t Mess with the Ex by DJ Jamison

 

Rules We Break Book 2

For years, I've lived by one simple Don't Mess With The Ex.

It was an easy rule to follow when Laurence Kensington III was on the other side of the country.

Now that he's shown up out of the blue? Not so much.

I followed my heart into a whirlwind romance with him once, and it led to disaster. I've vowed to never be so impulsive or reckless again. But when he brings me a proposal that will help me achieve my dreams for Granville *and* refuse his entitled family something they want, I'm once more put to the test.

Laurie is as handsome as I remember, but more generous than I ever gave him credit for. His sweet gestures, generous spirit, and open heart make it a challenge to stick to my rule.

But then, maybe messing with the ex isn't all bad. Maybe it's time to write new rules.

Is it really so wrong to follow my heart if my heart was right all along?

Don't Mess With The Ex is Book 2 of Rules We Break, a spin-off series from Games We Play, set in the small, quirky town of Granville, where nosy residents meddle in one another's lives, great friendships are made, and silly innuendos are a way of life.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/153602161-don-t-mess-with-the-ex

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

The cliffhanger of the previous book that gave us a sneak peek at what was to come in this book was so good and couldn’t wait to get my hands on this story! Tucker is shocked when his ex Laurie appears in town after not only 20 years, but announces that they are still married. Nearly 20 years ago, Laurie and Tucker were head over heels in love and in a moment of pure happiness got married. But trouble came knocking on their door in the form of Laurie’s very rich and very terrible family. The results? Heartbreak on both sides when Laurie sees no way to protect Tucker from the threats his family were making. Leading to an annulment and a separation that would have them broken hearted. However, years later, when Laurie’s aunt passes away and leaves her everything, there is one stipulation. He must be married. And when he finds out his marriage to Tucker was never filed, he takes this as a sign to find him once more. Truthfully, Laurie has no care for his inheritance. He’s done well for himself over the years once he was able to break away from his family. But he knows it won’t be easy winning Tucker’s heart and he’ll do whatever it takes to stay and win him back. Tucker is shocked to find Laurie in Granville, but he finds himself agreeing to stay married and put on a show if it means that Laurie’s family gets screwed over. He also knows that he’ll have to guard his heart again. He can’t let Laurie back in again. Not so easily. But the more he learns about this version of Laurie, the harder it is to resist the fact that he still does love his husband. I adored these two!! You can’t help by cheer for Laurie to win Tucker back. It’s clear as day that these two still very much love one another but are so scared to lose the other again. Another fun sweet story in this world. And I cannot wait for the next one!

Unlucky 13 Book 5: Exception by Cora Rose

 

Unlucky 13 Book 5

Welcome to Black Diamond Resort and Spa…

When I fled my small town home to fly across the globe for a potential job on a remote island, I did it on a whim. And let’s just say, my parents were not happy. According to them, the journey of self-discovery is not nearly as important as tending the family farm.

I may not know a lot, but I do know that I needed space to breathe. To figure out who I am and what I want out of life. I desperately needed change.

So I traded in my work boots and flannels for flip-flops, golf carts, and fit men in teeny-tiny swim trunks.

I came here for adventure, but I never would have guessed that on a tropical island filled with creepy lizards, poisonous jellyfish, and one obscenely deranged monkey, it would be the surfer with the tight body and smart mouth that I really had to watch out for.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/127414404-exception

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

We’ve seen a bit of Holden in previous books and I’m glad we are getting his story! For someone who is known on the island as the person to go to get weed, their drinks at the bar, and hooking, nothing prepared Holden for Chase. Chase who takes him by surprise the moment they meet. And though Holden does not attachments of any kind, he finds himself drifting back to Chase. Chase ran away from home to escape the pressure that was building inside him. He needed space and he needed it as soon as possible. When he gets a job on a remote island, seems like a perfect opportunity to flee. And in doing so he’ll not only find out more about himself but he’ll meet Holden The person it seems he has been waiting and looking for all along. He doesn’t understand his draw to Holden but he knows he can’t get enough. If only he can figure out what Holden wants. These two took me by surprise. Chase is very quiet and his inner monologue is pretty hilarious (especially when everyone keeps getting him high). But underneath that quiet and awkwardness, he seems to just get Holden. Holden has always closed himself off to everyone around him but he finds himself slipping when he is around Chase. These two were quiet a pair. With plenty of shenanigans and a monkey named Bob who can’t seem to let them alone. This was also a nice change up of getting two people who worked at the resort rather than being someone who was sent there. Fun story for sure!

Psy-Changeling Trinity Book 7: Resonance Surge by Nalini Singh

 

Psy-Changeling Trinity Book 7

Where are the broken? A propulsive question that unleashes a world of secrets in New York Times bestselling author Nalini Singh’s Resonance Surge . . .

StoneWater bears Pavel and Yakov Stepyrev have been a unit since birth, but now Pavel’s life is veering in a new direction, his heart held in the hands of Arwen Mercant, a Psy empath—and the only man who has ever brought Pavel to his knees.

This is it. A point of irrevocable change. For Pavel . . . for Arwen . . . for Yakov . . . and for another pair of twins whose bond has a far darker history.

A low-gradient Psy, Theodora Marshall is considered worthless by everyone but her violently powerful twin, Pax. She is the sole person he trusts in their venomous family to investigate a hidden and terrible part of their family history—an unregistered rehabilitation center established by their grandfather.

Places of unimaginable pain designed to psychically wipe minds, leaving the victims shells of their former selves, the Centers are an ugly vestige of the Psy race’s Silent past. But this Center was worse. Far, far worse. And now Theo must uncover the awful truth—in the company of a scowling bear named Yakov who isn’t about to take a Marshall at face value . . . especially a Marshall who has turned his dreams into chilling nightmares.

Because Yakov is the great-grandson of a foreseer . . . and he has seen Theo die in an unstoppable surge of blood. Night after night after night . . .

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/63200679-resonance-surge

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

This has to be my favorite since we started the Psy-Changeling Trinity era! For so many different reasons too! Like just one simple one: bears. You can’t help but feel charmed by them the minute we got them in the first book of this new era. A bear story is always a good time. And this time we actually kinda get two. The story mostly follows Yakov and Theodora (aka Theo). Yakov is a bear shifter and Theo a Psy. Years ago, Yakov would get visions of what he thought was his future mate. But he never met her. And lately his visions are back but she is dying in each of them while he can do nothing to help her. And with that, it’s finally time to meet her. Theo. Twin to Pax Marshall and who has been kept away from him for so many years. Reunited their bond will be stronger than ever. But there are complications. Like Pax’s illness with Scarab and how Theo has her own issues when it comes to her abilities. They’ve been through so many horrors, Theo more than most at the hands of her now deceased grandfather. And she is missing pieces of those moments. Until now. Theo and Yakov are assigned to find the truth of one of the Centers that is connected to the Marshall family. And it will be filled with more horrors than anyone imagined. And while Theo and Yakov are doing that, we have the other side of the story. Yakov’s twin, Pavel, and his long courtship with Arwen Mercant. I adore these two. And have been waiting very patiently to get way more pieces of their relationship and for the day when these two will finally be mated. And this story did not disappoint! We’ve gotten so many glimpses of them, but this time we finally get that extra bit more and it just made the story that much more special. Just another action packed, romance, and so many other things this world brings. It’s still my favorite and as always I can’t wait for more.

Out Today! A Soul of Ash and Blood by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Only his memories can save her…

A Soul of Ash and Blood, the highly-anticipated fifth book in the Blood and Ash Series from #1 New York Times bestselling author
Jennifer L. Armentrout is available now!

A great primal power has risen. The Queen of Flesh and Fire has become the Primal of Blood and Bone—the true Primal of Life and Death. And the battle Casteel, Poppy, and their allies have been fighting has only just begun. Gods are awakening across Iliseeum and the mortal realm, readying for the war to come.

But when Poppy falls into stasis, Cas faces the very real possibility that the dire, unexpected consequences of what she is becoming could take her away from him. Cas is given some advice, though—something he plans to cling to as he waits to see her beautiful eyes open once more: Talk to her.

And so, he does. He reminds Poppy how their journey began, revealing things about himself that only Kieran knows in the process. But it’s anybody’s guess what she’ll wake to or exactly how much of the realm and Cas will have changed when she does.

#1 New York Times bestselling author Jennifer L. Armentrout revisits Poppy and Casteel’s epic love story in the next installment of the Blood and Ash series. But this time, Hawke gets to tell the tale.

Fall in love today!

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Out Today! Game Changer by Amy Aislin

RELEASE BLITZ

Book Title: Game Changer

Author and Publisher: Amy Aislin

Cover Artist: Cate Ashwood Designs

Release Date: July 18, 2023

Genre: Contemporary m/m sports romance

Tropes: Boss/employee, hockey

Heat Rating: 3 flames

Length: 70 500 words/290 pages

Game Changer is book two in the Vancouver Orcas trilogy but stands on its own.

It does not end on a cliffhanger.

Goodreads

 

Buy Links

Amazon | Apple | B&N | Kobo

Audiobook also available on Audible, Amazon, and Apple

 

  Blurb It’s Blair Brawsiski’s ride or die year. After a decade in the AHL, if he doesn’t get called up to the NHL this season, it’s time to hang up his skates and focus on other things. But between a second job and family priorities, his attention isn’t where it should be, and his dreams of making it to the big leagues are dwindling by the day. Hiring a personal assistant to help out with day-to-day stuff? Probably the smartest move Blair’s made in a while. But when that PA turns out to be an assertive baker who’s exactly Blair’s type? Blair can’t help but wish those dexterous hands would knead something other than pastry dough. Namely, him. Charlie Shore needs extra income. Desperately. With his expenses about to go up, it’s find a second job or get evicted. Getting hired as Blair’s PA is perfect: flexible hours, decent wages, and a scorching hot professional hockey player who’s willing to let him use his gorgeous kitchen for his baked goods. Too bad that hockey player is exactly Charlie’s type. Too bad Charlie knows better than to date his new boss…  

  Excerpt “Charlie?” The man on his porch turned and . . . oh. Okay. Charlie being Coach Shore’s cousin, Blair had expected him to look like Coach: big, burly, and bearded. But Charlie was short, slim, and clean-shaven. He wore a wool coat in a colour that was somewhere between ivory and tan, a dark green scarf, and a matching toque with a grey pompom. Dark blond hair peaked out the bottom of the hat. He looked like an ethereal fairy from another realm. Of course he was exactly Blair’s type, all cute and rosy-cheeked and elfin. Blair let out a rueful laugh under his breath. As if he had time for dating with everything else going on in his life. Jen and Jerry would be married before Blair found a minute of free time. “Charlie?” he asked again, holding out a hand as he crested the porch’s top step. “I’m so sorry I’m late.” “No biggie.” Charlie’s smile was wide and genuine despite Blair’s tardiness, and it triggered something loose in Blair’s brain. Hand still in Charlie’s, he said, “Have we met before? You look familiar.” “No,” Charlie said with a conviction that had Blair questioning himself. “But we’ve probably been to several of the same functions, most recently the pre-season barbecue at Coach Epps’ place. I work for the organization.” “No kidding. Doing what?” “I’m the baker for our NHL team. I make pastries for team breakfast, breads for sandwiches for lunch, and whatever else the head chef might need. Dinner rolls, desserts, that sort of thing.” Now Blair recognized him. There were only a few times a year when the entire organization got together: the pre-season barbecue, the holiday party, and the end-of-season barbecue. But when you put the entire AHL and NHL teams in a room, along with coaches, management, and office and support staff as well as significant others and children, it made for close to two hundred people. And with Blair missing half of those due to other commitments in the ten years he’d been with the Orcas, it was no wonder he hadn’t officially met Charlie. Plus, not being a social creature meant that introducing himself to a crowd of strangers one by one was basically his version of a living nightmare. He did remember once seeing Charlie from across the yard at one of the barbecues and wondering who the cutie with the smile that radiated warmth was. By the time Blair had set his plate down and turned back to make his way toward the man, Charlie had vanished. And now here he was, on Blair’s doorstep. What was he doing here if he already had a job, though? “Are you . . . seeking a new career direction?” “No,” Charlie said with a quiet laugh. “Just a second job.” He cocked his head, and he might’ve looked guileless if there hadn’t been a hint of humour in his brown eyes. “Can I have my hand back?” “Right.” Blair snatched his hand away, embarrassment tingling across the back of his neck. “Sorry. Uh. Come on in.”    

About the Author

Amy’s lived with her head in the clouds since she first picked up a book as a child, and being fluent in two languages means she’s read a lot of books! She first picked up a pen on a rainy day in fourth grade when her class had to stay inside for recess. Tales of treasure hunts with her classmates eventually morphed into love stories between men, and she’s been writing ever since. She writes evenings and weekends—or whenever she isn’t at her full-time day job saving the planet at Canada’s largest environmental non-profit.

An unapologetic introvert, Amy reads too much and socializes too little, with no regrets. She loves connecting with readers. Join her Facebook Group to stay up-to-date on upcoming releases and for access to early teasers, find her on Instagram, or sign up for her infrequent newsletter.

 

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Giveaway

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Take the Plunge by Colette Davison

 

One weekend could lead to forever if Jett can take the plunge.

Jett didn’t expect to spend the weekend trapped in a remote holiday house with his best friend’s brother. As they try to pass the time, Kian’s bright enthusiasm starts to break through Jett’s gruff defences. When Kian offers to help Jett explore his desires with no strings attached, everything changes.

Fooling around when your heart isn’t on the line is one thing, but when the weekend ends, neither man wants their casual arrangement to end. Past betrayal has made Jett wary of trusting anyone, but even though Kian’s patience seems to be never-ending, Jett knows it’s only a matter of time before ‘no strings’ turns into ‘goodbye’.

Can Jett look past his fear and make the man who’s claimed his heart his?

Take the Plunge is a standalone contemporary M/M romance where a jaded man with a permanent storm cloud over his head falls for a sunshiny optimist. There’s forced proximity, an interfering best friend, swoony moonlight swimming, bi-sexual exploration, and lots of first times.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/156698122-take-the-plunge?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=HACXYtyH3N&rank=1

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

Things take an interesting turn when Jett and Kian find themselves trapped at Kian’s grandfather’s holiday house. Rufus, aka Kian’s brother and Jett’s best friend, believes he is doing them a favor when he handcuffs them together when they are sleeping, steals all the tech, the cars and car keys, all their clothes, and even their shoes when they head out for a weekend away. He knows his brother has always had a crush on Jett and he thinks that Jett may like Kian back if he gets out of his own head. But things aren’t so simple. Jett has been burned badly the last time he fell in love. And he is wary to have any sort of relationship moving forward, especially since he is still facing some consequences. He may need to stop working so much but it will take a lot of patience and kindness for that to happen. Lucky for him Kian excels at both. Kian has always had feelings for Jett but never imagined a chance where Jett could like him back. He knows Kian has his secrets but he can be patient. And he can even be patient if Jett wants to explore bicurious-ness. When these two finally give in to their chemistry it unlocks a whole new thing for them. But will it be enough for Jett to finally let go of the past and start building a real future with Kian? This story was pretty fun! Kian and Jett are a great match. They definitely have that grumpy and sunshine thing going on. A fun story all around!

Unlucky 13 Book 4: Damaged by Hayden Hall

 

Unlucky 13 Book 4

Welcome to Black Diamond Resort & Spa… I’m left on this strip of sand after my second round of rehab. Father says I should rest and build my strength back, but I know better. I’m a toxic asset. Father is launching his campaign of hate and bigotry in a presidential bid and I am the black hole for his reputation. And not because I’m an addict. Oh no. I’m radioactive because I like kissing guys in clubs and the paparazzi love catching me in the act. I am of such little importance that nobody bothered to find me a private house on this godforsaken island and I’m forced to share one with a dangerously handsome, self-proclaimed a-hole, and America’s eleventh luckiest lottery winner, Tiago Alvarez. I’m the kind of guy who likes flirting with disaster and there’s no bigger disaster than the self-destructive daredevil I’m forced to share the bed with. The attraction is instant, but the scars on my soul rip and bleed as soon as I have a chance to get closer to him. And Tiago is harboring dark secrets. Secrets that pull me in and won’t let go. He’s a handsome train wreck and I am a walking relapse. We’re a match made in the seventh circle of hell. Being near him is like leaning from a skyscraper. It’s the highest high I know. But any good addict will tell after every high, there comes a low. And us? We stand no chance against this bitter world. We’re just so damaged.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/126897119-damaged

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My Review: 3/5 Stars

I’ve been liking this series, but I have to say this wasn’t my favorite of the series so far. This one was definitely darker in terms of our characters and what they are going through. It was a bit tough to get through and I will say it’s not like I have read stories without trigger warnings before. But this one just didn’t grab me like the previous books. So both are characters, Matthew and Tiago, are really broken. They are both in pretty bad places in their lives. And even meeting one another doesn’t drag themselves out of that place. It takes quite a lot to do that and even more to recognize the feelings they have for one another. For Matthew, he was shipped to Black Diamond by his very conservative father. Matthew is just out of rehab for a drug problem but the real “problem” his father likes to say (only to Matthew) is that Matthew is gay. Matthew has never had a stable person in his life to love him for who he is. Instead, he is abused emotionally and even a bit physically for loving men. And he is just so tired of it all. Any fight left of him is just about depleted. His father is a politician and a homophobe and just so many other awful things. Poor Matthew can just never seem to escape the hate. Then there is Tiago. Tiago who was always scrapping by in life. Then he wins the lottery and he is ready for his happily ever after with the man he loves. But things take a tragic turn when his boyfriend dies. And he has spiraled into a depression and an attitude that doesn’t care about anything anymore. When Matthew and Tiago share a home on the island, together they may be able to pull themselves out of the water that threatens to drown them. 

The Marked Dragon Prince Book 3: Hidden Fate by Jen L. Grey

Marked Dragon Prince Book 3

I'm the cause of a war between two brothers… two dragon princes.

The king is dead.

He was the one person who could’ve protected my fated mate, the true heir to the throne.

As a result, Thorn and I are being hunted as we scramble to find a way to survive this war.

Even with our allies, our numbers are small… not great enough to fight the prince who is desperate to claim the crown.

But my mate and I will forever be in danger unless we eliminate the threat.

And the safety of our people hinges on us taking the throne.

We must sacrifice everything just for the chance at a better future… even if it means sacrificing ourselves.

One-click this steamy and suspenseful arranged marriage, love triangle, fated mates, royal dragon shifter romance today!

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/144727849-hidden-fate

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Thorn and Everly's story comes to an end! After witnessing Drake kill the king to clear his path to the throne, it will take everything Everly and Thorn to stop him. They'll have to regroup and gain some allies. And it's time once and for all for them to decide what their future will look like. Thorn has never wanted the crown. He wanted nothing to do with those who abandoned him and sought to hurt him for a gift he never wanted. But the more he sees of the terrible acts Drake has committed, he finally begins to see what Everly has seen all along. That things need to change. And they have to be the ones to help those who need it and make the changes. Lots of action and romance in this final story. And lots of happily ever afters for characters we have come to love. Just another great series by Jen! And one you won't want to miss!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

 

Thrust Into Love Book 2: Matched by My Rival by DJ Jamison

 

Thrust Into Love Book 2

Simon Prentiss: ex-football star, bitter rival, and...falling for the enemy?

I hate my teammate, Parker Reed.

I hate that he makes me work so hard for my position on the field. 

Hate how he always smiles. How easily he shows me up when I'm injured.

Most of all, I hate that he made me lose my temper.

Next thing I know, football is gone.

My scholarship is gone.

I'm nearly gone, too.

With help, I manage to stay in school for my final semester.

At least without football, I can explore a new side to myself.

See where my attraction to guys takes me without fear of it affecting my future. 

I didn't see it coming. The cosmic joke.

The sweet, patient guy on the hookup app?

The one who makes me burn with the desire to have him?

Yeah, it's Parker.

Our chemistry is off the charts, no matter how much I resent him.

Holding a grudge against him is impossible.

But when he wants to walk away from everything I lost, can I accept it?

If I don't, I'll lose him too--and that can't happen.

Because I don't hate Parker Reed.

I think I love him.

Matched By My Rival is an enemies-to-lovers, jock rivals romance. It's Book 2 of the Thrust Into Love series but can be read as a standalone.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/57824339-matched-by-my-rival

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

Simon has been struggling to find his footing since he made a mistake that cost him his football scholarship and his future. Now, he has been working hard to stay in school, working at a bar to get the money he needs for school and to pay his grandparents back, and volunteer for his frat, who saved him with a partial scholarship to stay at school. He still can’t believe he let his temper get the best of him when he punched Parker. His rival on the football team. Months later, his temper has cooled but he still finds himself a bit mad at Parker, even knowing that none of it was truly his fault. Meanwhile, Parker has never liked that Simon was kicked off the team. He tried to plead his case but it wasn’t enough. Truth was, he really liked Simon but how can he expect the guy to like him after everything that happened? Turns out there are a couple of things. Like showing up to volunteer with Simon to fina way get a clean slate and get matched on a hook up app. Though in that case, neither know who the other is. Both haven’t had much of a chance to explore their sexuality when it comes to being attracted to other guys. When it comes to football, it’s a no no. However, when they are anonymous on an app, they can finally explore that side of them. And neither of them are ready for the chesmitry that sparks between them. Or how explosive it becomes when they finally meet face to face. I really liked this story! Simon and Parker are equally matched and when they are together and give themselves a chance to get to know one another, they are pretty great together. 

IOU Series Book 2.5: Delicious by Leslie McAdam

 

IOU Book 2.5

A second chance at a first kiss I kissed Mason during a high school game of spin the bottle ... and then we never spoke again. Until now. Will we have a renewed chance at love in the City of Lights? Delicious is a contemporary M/M short story that takes place during the same time period as Studious and features Alden's best friend, Mason. While it's a stand-alone story, it's probably best read after Studious . Sweet and steamy times and a HEA guaranteed. It was previously available to newsletter subscribers. There have been no changes to the text. the alternate cover paperback edition of Studious also includes Delicious as a bonus.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/156732807-delicious

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

This short story is one I wish was longer! Mason and Ben met ten years ago in high school and always had a bit of a crush on each other. And during a party they finally shared a kiss during a game of spin the bottle. But when Mason’s best friend needed helped, he slipped out for the night without getting a chance to say anything more to Ben. And unfortunately for Ben, his family moves a lot. And he was gone the next day. But fate has plans for these two. Because ten years later, they meet by chance at a cooking class in Paris. Time for these too to get their second chance! Very cute short story. Definitely wish there was more!

From Nothing Book 2: Lot 62 by Nordika Night

 

From Nothing Book 2

Every fairytale had a villain, and this way of life was ours. Coming from nothing and gaining something is a lot to handle. Can they hang on to it? A year after moving in together on Lot 62, Devon and Maddox have a whole new dynamic to adjust to—cohabitation. Merging their personalities and energies into one tiny trailer is a lot to handle, but so is their relationship. There are bound to be some growing pains, and these two are about to work through them all. As they strive to steady their relationship, they also have a horde of troubles coming their way. Jim is out of prison with a new plan. Devon is a product of his upbringing and doesn’t always make the smartest decisions. Maddox runs interference while suffering the consequences of their reality. With threats on their doorstep, Maddox and Devon learn how to prioritize the hard way. All that matters is that they’re together, and they’ll stop at nothing to ensure they are. The future may seem bleak, but their bond and the love they share will have to get them through the dark to the future they’re dreaming about.

* this is book 2 in the From Nothing series. Garron Park (book 1) must be read first. Lot 62 is a continuation of Garron Park, focusing on the relationship between Maddox and Devon. MM enemies-to-lovers romance.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/167645479-lot-62

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

It’s been a year since Devon and Maddox got together and Devon’s father went to jail. For Devon and Maddox their relationship has really grown. They are in love and pretty happy. Sure, there are still kinks to work out in their relationship, but they work hard at it every day. In the beginning of the story they’ll have to sort out some feelings they’ve been dealing with when life is getting in the way of spending time with one another. But they know relationships aren’t easy and both are fiercely loyal and in love that neither are willing to leave the the other for anything. While that is going on, they also are dealing with the fact that Devon’s father, Jim, is out from jail. And it is only a matter of time before he is back and making them pay for putting him in jail in the first place. They’ll have to be ready at any moment. So much going on in this story! I couldn’t put it down. So many ups and downs, twists and turns. You’ll be cheering for these two to finally get the happy ending they both so desperately deserve. Loved this story! Maddox and Devon are just so right for one another. They challenge each other every day. And no matter how many fights they get into, honestly it’s just their thing, they know the love between them is always there. They are equals and have their own way of just being themselves in their relationship that just simply works for them and who they are. Great series so far! And I’m so happy to hear that there will be another book in this series but focusing on two others that I was really hoping would get a book. So I will definitely be on the look out for that!

From Nothing Book 1: Garron Park by Nordika Night

 

From Nothing Book 1

Garron Park, where hope dies and no one ever gets ahead. Until… 

When Devon Sawyer desperately searches for his brother in the middle of the night, beaten and broken, he finds Maddox Kane instead. 

With his dad on his trail, he has no choice but to stand on his enemy’s doorstep and let Maddox help. Maddox has never seen Devon this vulnerable. Living in Garron’s trailer park means families dole out discipline on the regular and violence is a part of life, but something about how far Jim Sawyer takes it this time has Maddox unnerved. 

Rivals in motocross, work, and life itself, they’re forced to work together for one night. Perspectives change and their friction morphs into something unexpected. Hatred turns to lust. Tensions switch from hostile to aroused. While their competitiveness remains, their dynamic shifts. Their acceptance is anything but graceful. 

Two guys who come from nothing, with very little to look forward to, find themselves craving each other in new and fiery ways. 

Reluctantly. 

WHAT TO EXPECT:

GARRON PARK is book one (1) of two (2) in the From Nothing series. Potential to expand later, but for now remains a duology. They must be read in order as book 2 is a continuation of book 1 featuring the same main characters. It is an MM romance with explicit spicy times, foul language, and two main guys who are pretty down on their luck.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/127924695-garron-park

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

Devon and Maddox have always been enemies. When they aren’t racing on the motorbike track, they are in some sort of fist fight. All the while their brothers are the best of friends and wondering when the two of them will get along. If you ask Devon and Maddox? The answer is never. But never say never. Neither have the perfect home life. No money to their names, working every chance they get, and their dads are pretty awful. Always looking to them to give them any money they earn. But when Devon’s dad takes it too far one night, Devon finds himself on Maddox’s doorstep in a desperate attempt to find his brother. Devon is also beat up, bleeding all over, and probably has a bit of a concussion. Maddox finds himself unable to turn him away and takes care of him. Shifting their relationship from that moment on. Well for those who love the saying, there is a thin line between love and hate, Maddox and Devon are the definition. The moment they turn the hate to love, or more accurately lust in their case for the start, then nothing will ever be the same for the two of them. Suddenly years of fighting and being constantly at one another’s throats takes on a whole new meaning and they’ll form something that looks so odd to outsiders but makes perfect sense to the two of them. As these two figure out what they are to one another, they’ll have to deal with Devon’s dad who is constantly looking to hurt his sons. Really liked this story! It surprised me how much it drew me in and once I was in, I was hooked. Devon and Maddox real are the definition of enemies to lovers but keep the enemies part of their relationship aflame. Fighting is natural to them and they love fighting with one another. Definitely going to be reading their follow up story right away!